Cokethorpe School in Witney: ‘How we help to stop stress’

The school’s approach, which includes peer mentoring, mindfulness, daily tutor support and counselling, aims to help pupils understand stress, build resilience and develop coping strategies for exams and beyond.

Andrew Uglow, deputy head academic at Cokethorpe School, said: “One of my big bugbears is the false dichotomy that exists in people’s minds between caring for children’s wellbeing and having high standards and expectations of them.

“It is absolutely possible to hold both at the same time.

“In fact, it is through caring deeply about the individual, and providing the right support, space and mechanisms to help them manage challenges, that we are able to get the very best out of them.”

The school places a strong focus on peer support, with lower sixth students offering one-to-one mentoring for younger pupils.

These informal conversations provide a safe space for pupils to talk openly, seek guidance and benefit from the experience of older peers.

As exam periods approach, the school encourages students to continue participating in sports and outdoor activities to help maintain balance and perspective.

Mr Uglow said: “Exercise, fresh air and consistent routine all help pupils maintain perspective, sharpen focus and sustain positive energy levels during periods of pressure.”

Resilience-building begins in Year 7 with a structured programme designed to help students understand anxiety, recognise stress responses and develop coping strategies.

Mr Uglow said: “We can’t protect children from stress, and nor should we.

“What we can do is build resilience so that when stressful moments arise, they have the tools and confidence to cope.”

Pupils are also guided in practical revision techniques, including time management and striking a balance between study and rest.

Daily tutor contact ensures that pupils are well known individually by staff, enabling early identification of concerns through subtle changes in behaviour.

When more specialised support is needed, students can access trained child and adolescent counsellor Tanya Smith through self-referral, staff, or parent requests.

Mrs Smith emphasises the importance of emotional support during adolescence, describing it as a complex period of development that requires both understanding and structure.

The school’s philosophy supports the wider message of Stress Awareness Month: while stress cannot be eliminated from young people’s lives, schools can equip them with the tools, confidence and support networks they need to manage it effectively.

Cokethorpe School is an independent, co-educational day school for pupils aged four to 18, set on 150 acres of parkland.